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Bideford

Bideford

The historic fishing town of Bideford is only two miles away from Westward Living where you will find a assortment of pubs, music and restaurants to satisfy every palate.

Bideford is an attractive town on the west bank of the River Torridge, where the river begins to widen to form the estuary. The old road has a lovely old bridge crossing the Torridge linking the town of Bideford to its neighbouring village East the Water. This impressive, arched stone bridge was built in 1535. The original bridge was built from timber in 1300, and was replaced by a stone bridge in the 15th century. Various adaptations have been made to the bridge throughout the intervening years.

Today, Bideford is a thriving shopping centre with an historic Pannier Market holding both produce and crafts markets twice each week. Many antique shops are scattered amongst the narrow backstreets and alleyways that lead up from the quay and the river. These alleys are known locally as drangs. Visit to either the pannier market or wander through the traffic free lanes, you’ll find Bideford is the perfect place for a spot of retail therapy, with quirky little shops packed with all manner of interesting items, and when it’s time for a break you can stop at one of the many pavement cafes for a coffee and a pasty. If you fancy a spot of brand name shopping head out of town to the Atlantic Village Outlet for bargains galore.

In the 16th Century, Bideford was Britain’s third largest port. The name of the town is derived from by-the-ford, presumably from the days before the bridge was constructed. The tree-lines quay still bustles with fishing vessels, cargo and pleasure boats, and there are regular boat trip to Lundy Island in the Bristol Channel, about 12 miles away. For cyclists and walkers, there is the tarka trail, free of traffic to explore the lovely scenery. Victoria park boasts the fabulous Burton Art Gallery & a wonderful children’s play area and free splash pool which is popular on sunny days.

A ferry operates between Bideford quay and Lundy Island, which lies about 22 miles (35 km) away in the Bristol Channel. The same ship, the MS Oldenburg, also provides evening cruises from Bideford along the River Torridge.

And for something very special......

One of our personal favourite places to eat out, is at Mariners Bar and Restaurant in Bideford! The food is amazing the, atmosphere is great and you will have a truly amazing evening!

Mariners Bar and Restaurant - 01237 476 447

A super restaurant tucked away at no 4 Cooper Street in the old historic fishing town of Bideford, which is 3 miles from your cottage. The food and service are consistently excellent; most of their ingredients come from within 25 miles of Bideford. Chef and owner John Emms has won loads of awards recently for his wonderful dishes. If you are celebrating a special occasion this is the one to go to and the will organise celebratory cakes and surprises! Please mention you’re a guest at Duckhaven for priority reservations.www.marinersbideford.com